Donald J.Trump endorses John James for Michigan governor

gave his “complete and total endorsement” to the West Point graduate and Iraq War veteran now serving in Congress.

MICHIGAN — Donald J.Trump endorsed John James in the race for Michigan governor on a Truth Social post on June 22, 2026 at 2:15 PM EST.

Here is the full post (see truthsocial.com): “It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Congressman, John James, who is running to become the next Governor of the Beautiful State of Michigan! A West Point Graduate, Combat Pilot, Brave Iraq War Veteran, Successful Businessman and Job Creator, and now, as a Highly Respected U.S. Congressman, John has proven he has the Courage and Wisdom to deliver strong results for the incredible people of his wonderful State, and our Nation. As your next Governor, John will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our Border SECURE, Strengthen our Brave Military/Veterans, Safeguard our Elections, Defend our always under siege Second Amendment, and Advocate for the Working Men and Women of Michigan. John James has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Michigan — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!”

Trump called John James an “America First Congressman” and praised his record as a West Point graduate, combat pilot, and Iraq War veteran. The endorsement described James as a “Successful Businessman and Job Creator” who has shown “Courage and Wisdom” during his time in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The endorsement laid out a broad policy agenda Trump expects James to pursue as governor. Tax cuts, deregulation, energy production, border security, military and veterans support, election integrity, and Second Amendment protections all featured in the post.

John James represents Michigan in Congress and previously ran twice for the U.S. Senate, losing to Democratic incumbents in 2018 and 2020. He won his House seat in 2022, flipping a competitive district in southeastern Michigan. His gubernatorial bid places him in a Republican primary field seeking to reclaim the governor’s mansion after Democrat Gretchen Whitmer’s two terms.

Trump’s backing carries weight in Republican primaries, where his endorsement has reshaped contested races across the country. The move signals his continued influence over the direction of state-level GOP politics and could consolidate donor and grassroots support behind James ahead of a competitive primary.

In the last 30 days, 6 of 630 Trump posts focused on the topic of elections and domestic politics, with all 6 addressing candidate endorsements for the 2024 and 2026 election cycles.

Source: Zenger analysis
Note: Table generated by NewsFindr on June 22, 2026 at 2:18 PM EST

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